Upriver, to the west, is a beach that has attracted Ottawa residents for more than a century, although it wasn’t officially established until 1927. After the NCC’s multi-million-dollar rehabilitation of the site, a whole new facility was unveiled in 2025, complete with accessible changerooms, a zero-carbon cafe and bar, artwork by Christopher Griffin, a boardwalk, paid parking and more. The three mushroom-shaped structures by the late Ottawa architect of the ‘60s, James Strutt, are still in place, too. While it’s not the best spot for distance swimming, the sandy beach is ideal for kids, and there’s a wonderful view of the sunset. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to get out on the water.
